Credit: The Associated Press

WHITE SULPHUR SPRINGS, W.Va. -- J.J. Watt thought it was a perfect matchup going against Tom Brady today as the Texans Patriots met for a joint practice. He said it was easy for his team to benefit going up against the Patriots great.

“The old saying goes ‘iron sharpens iron,’ and I think, (he’s) obviously one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the game,” Watt said following practice at the Greenbrier Resort. “It’s always good to go out there and get some reps against somebody of that caliber. It’s a lot of fun.”

Watt didn’t play in last season’s divisional playoff matchup between the two teams in Foxboro. He was out with back trouble. But now, he's looking good, and feeling excited about the new season.

“I feel great. I feel very good. I’m very excited to be out there,” Watt said. “I’m not here to make any proclamations. I’m not here to say any breaking news, but I’m very, very excited. I’m very excited for the season.”